High loneliness is prevalent among older adults and is a significant risk factor for major depression and low recovery rates in patients. Current interventions for loneliness are limited. Previous research has demonstrated a link between loneliness, negative social emotions, and reduced resting-state functional connectivity in the lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC) and the default mode network (DMN). Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has shown promise in enhancing emotional regulation and connectivity, potentially alleviating loneliness in older adults with depression.
Loneliness is a pervasive issue among older adults, significantly increasing the risk of major depression and contributing to low recovery rates in affected individuals. Despite its widespread impact, current interventions aimed at alleviating loneliness remain limited and often ineffective. Research has revealed a strong connection between feelings of loneliness, negative social emotions, and decreased resting-state functional connectivity in key brain regions, particularly the lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC) and the default mode network (DMN). These findings suggest that the neural underpinnings of loneliness may be targeted to improve emotional well-being. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) emerges as a promising intervention in this context, as it has been shown to enhance emotional regulation and improve functional connectivity within these neural networks. By applying low electrical currents to specific brain areas, tDCS may help mitigate feelings of loneliness, thereby fostering a greater sense of social connection among older adults with depression. Objectives Evaluate the Effects of Repeated tDCS on Loneliness Levels: This trial aims to systematically assess how repeated sessions of tDCS influence loneliness in older adults with major depressive disorder. By comparing these groups, we hope to understand the differential impacts of tDCS on loneliness, taking into account the potential confounding effects of depression. Elucidate the Neuro-Emotional Mechanisms: A key objective is to uncover the neuro-emotional mechanisms that underlie the effects of tDCS on loneliness. This involves examining changes in neural activity and connectivity patterns in the LPFC and DMN, as well as tracking shifts in negative social emotions that may accompany improvements in loneliness. Understanding these mechanisms could enhance the efficacy of tDCS as an intervention. Develop Predictive Models for Individualized Treatment Outcomes: Another important aim of this trial is to create predictive models that utilize neuro-emotional data to tailor treatment approaches for individuals. By identifying specific neural and emotional markers that correlate with positive outcomes from tDCS, we can move toward more personalized interventions, potentially improving recovery rates and overall mental health in older adults with depression facing loneliness. This trial represents a significant step toward addressing the critical issue of loneliness in older adults with depression, with the potential to offer a novel and effective intervention strategy that integrates neurobiology and emotional health.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
180
The tDCS parameters were set to a current of 2mA for a single session lasting 20 minutes. For stimulating the lDLPFC, the positive electrode was placed at position F3, and the negative electrode was placed in the right supraorbital area/FP2 (e.g., Dubreuil-Vall et al., 2021, Biol Psychiatry: CNNI).
The tDCS parameters were set to a current of 2mA for a single session lasting 20 minutes. Based on the EEG 10-20 international system, the positive electrode for stimulating the rVLPFC was placed at position F6, while the negative electrode was placed in the left supraorbital area/FP1 (e.g., He et al., 2020, Psychol Med)
The electrode positions were randomized to match those of the rVLPFC or lDLPFC groups, but the stimulation only lasted for the first 30 seconds.
Guangzhou Brain Hospital
Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
RECRUITINGChange in loneliness levels from baseline measured by the UCLA Loneliness Scale from baseline
This outcome measures the change in loneliness levels among participants, assessed using the UCLA Loneliness Scale. Evaluations will occur at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months post-intervention (after the two weeks of intervention, the same as below) to determine the effectiveness of the tDCS intervention on reducing feelings of loneliness in patients with depression.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
Change in Emotional and Motivational Ratings from baseline
Participants' emotional and motivational responses will be assessed using a word rating task, which evaluates how different words or stimuli evoke emotional and motivational reactions.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Social Participation Levels from baseline
The PM-3D4D questionnaire will be utilized to assess participants' levels of social participation, focusing on engagement in social activities and interactions.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Social Motivation from baseline
Social motivation will be evaluated through the Social Motivation Questionnaire, which examines the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that drive social engagement in individuals.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Social Network from baseline
The Lubben Social Network Scale will be used to assess participants' social networks
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Emotional Regulation from baseline
The Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire will be used to assess participants' emotion regulation functions.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Affective Traits from baseline
Affective traits will be evaluated using the Chinese Affect Scale, which assess individual differences in emotional experiences and behavioral tendencies.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Reward Sensitivity from baseline
The Temporal Experience of Pleasure Scale will be used to assess participants' reward sensitivity.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Depressive Symptoms from baseline
Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) will be employed to measure the severity of depressive symptoms among participants, providing insight into their mental health status.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Resting-State Functional Connectivity from baseline
Resting State Functional Connectivity among major brain networks based on T2-weighted functional magnetic resonance imaging data will be assessed.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
Change in social support from baseline
the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support will be used to assess participants' perceived social support
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Emotion Coping from baseline
The COPE questionnaire will be used to assess participants' emotion coping under adversity.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Incentive-Driven Behavioural Tendencies from baseline
The Behavioural Activation/Inhibition Scale will be used to assess participants' behavioural tendencies driven by rewards and punishments.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
changes in Anhedonia level from baseline
The Dimensional Anhedonia Rating Scale will be used to assess participants' anhedonia level.
Time frame: 2 weeks, 1.5 months and 3.5 months
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